Manchester City are preparing to make a late push for Enzo Fernandez, with the reigning champions reportedly ready to test Chelsea's resolve with a major offer. According to The Independent, Chelsea are also stepping up their pursuit of Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott after seeing three previous bids rejected.
Key Highlights
- Manchester City are expected to make a substantial bid for Enzo Fernandez this week.
- Chelsea have had three bids for Alex Scott rejected by Bournemouth, with offers reportedly reaching £68 million.
- Bournemouth could reconsider their stance if Chelsea offer between £80 million and £90 million for Scott.
- Fernandez's potential departure could trigger a transfer domino effect, forcing Chelsea to move quickly before next Tuesday's deadline.
Manchester City Push for a Late Transfer Move
City missed a deadline to sign Fernandez for £120 million two weeks ago, but Enzo Maresca remains determined to reunite with his former player at the Etihad Stadium.
With Rodri having joined Barcelona, City are determined to strengthen their squad. Reports suggest they could submit a formal offer for Fernandez in the coming days. Chelsea are aware of City's growing interest and have consequently accelerated their pursuit of Scott to fill the potential midfield void.
Bournemouth Set High Asking Price for Alex Scott
Bournemouth have maintained a firm not-for-sale stance on Alex Scott throughout the summer, turning down multiple approaches from Chelsea. The rejected offers reportedly reached as high as £68 million, underlining Bournemouth's determination to keep the midfielder.
However, The Independent reports that a significantly improved offer in the region of £80 million to £90 million could persuade Bournemouth to change their position before the transfer window closes next Tuesday.
For Chelsea to meet that valuation, the club would likely need to reinvest funds generated from Fernandez's potential sale. The midfielder was heavily booed by sections of the crowd during Monday night's win over Fulham, further highlighting the growing tension around his uncertain future in London.
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Alonso Calls for Clarity on Fernandez's Future
Xabi Alonso has publicly addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding Fernandez, making it clear that he wants the situation resolved quickly. Following the match against Fulham, Alonso acknowledged that a departure remains a distinct possibility.
Speaking to BBC's Match of the Day, Alonso said: "In football, I am not surprised by anything. We will see. My wish is that we know what will happen for the future but we will see this week."
While the manager has remained cautious in his comments, his desire for a swift resolution highlights the urgency surrounding Fernandez's situation at Stamford Bridge.
A Transfer Domino Effect Could Be Coming
Manchester City are expected to test Chelsea's resolve with a substantial official offer for Fernandez this week. Should the reigning champions meet Chelsea's valuation, the move could set off an immediate domino effect in the transfer market.
Chelsea would then need to accelerate their pursuit of Alex Scott, potentially putting pressure on Bournemouth to reconsider their stance before the transfer deadline. With the window closing next Tuesday, the next few days could prove decisive for all three clubs.
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